Musa Na Allah, Sokoto
The Nigerian Army has reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening the welfare of troops, sustaining aggressive operations against banditry and deepening national unity as frontline personnel of the 8 Division and Sector 2 of Operation FANSAN YAMMA gathered for the Chief of Army Staff’s special Eid-el-Adha luncheon at the Forward Operating Base, Tureta, Sokoto State.
Representing the Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, the Commander Infantry Corps, Major General Godwin Mutkut, said the special Sallah gathering underscored the Army leadership’s unwavering concern for officers and soldiers serving in difficult operational environments across the country,
Mutkut commended the troops for their courage, discipline and resilience in the ongoing counter-banditry operations, stressing that the Nigerian Army remained united in both moments of battle and celebration.
“Your dedication and sacrifices remain the backbone of our nation’s security,” he declared.
He explained that the luncheon was organised to boost morale, foster camaraderie and honour the sacrifices of troops deployed far away from their families in defence of the nation’s territorial integrity and internal security.
“The Nigerian Army stands together not only in battle but also in celebration.
“This gathering reflects our shared commitment, unity of purpose and collective resolve to defend Nigeria against all threats,” the COAS representative said.
Mutkut also conveyed the appreciation of the Army leadership to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for what he described as strategic guidance and unwavering support to the Armed Forces in the ongoing fight against insecurity nationwide.
He reassured Nigerians that the Army would continue to intensify efforts aimed at dismantling banditry, kidnapping and other criminal networks threatening peace and economic activities, particularly in the North-West region.
In his remarks, the General Officer Commanding (GOC) 8 Division and Commander Sector 2, Operation FANSAN YAMMA, Major General Bemgba Paul Koughna, praised officers and soldiers for their gallantry, sacrifice and professionalism in ongoing operations across the theatre.
“We thank Almighty God for His protection, mercy and strength granted to our troops throughout the series of operations and engagements in service to our nation, especially here in Sector 2, Operation FANSAN YAMMA,” Koughna stated.
The GOC described the presence of the COAS representative at the frontline celebration as a strong indication of the Army leadership’s resolve to prioritise the welfare and operational efficiency of troops deployed in hostile environments.
According to him, the special Eid-el-Adha luncheon aligns with the Chief of Army Staff’s “Soldier First” philosophy, which places premium attention on troops’ morale, welfare and sound administration as critical components of operational success.
“This luncheon is a deliberate leadership initiative aimed at recognising gallantry, reinforcing cohesion and consolidating operational gains by bringing this celebration directly to frontline troops,” he said.
Koughna noted that troops of the 8 Division had continued to record major operational successes against bandits, kidnappers and other criminal elements, thereby restoring confidence among residents and strengthening civil-military relations in affected communities.
“From dominating the battlespace to neutralising threats of banditry and kidnapping, your successes have reassured the civil populace and strengthened the bond between the military and citizens,” he added.
He further reminded the personnel that loyalty, unity and selfless service remained the bedrock of military professionalism and national stability, stressing that the diversity within the Nigerian Army should always serve as a source of strength and patriotism.
“Our diversity is not a point of weakness but a force that fuels victory and national unity. We stand together in the heat of battle, united by shared commitment to the defence of our country,” the GOC declared.
Earlier, the Chairman of the Organising Committee, Brigadier General Abdulmalik Jibia Muhammad, commended the Army leadership for sustaining welfare initiatives targeted at boosting troops’ morale and operational effectiveness, while calling on civilians to continue supporting security agencies with credible information to enhance peace, stability and development across the country.
